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The purpose of the ARK is to assist the English speaking communities of the Var in areas of Pastoral care where there may be need of compassionate help and personal support. Such instances would include bereavement, illness, stress and other difficulties where there may be limited physical or emotional resources to cope with the day to day problems that may arise in their lives.  We work both independently and alongside other agencies who share a similar concern for the welfare and well being of the resident ex-patriot community in this part of France.  The ARK is established as a French Association which has a similar status to a UK charity.  It is guided by a steering group of professional and dedicated people who live and work in this part of France and share the concerns for the needs of the community. This work is endorsed and encouraged by the British Consulate in Marseilles, the Anglican Diocese in Europe and the British Association. The ARK seeks to be a “church” in the real sense of serving the community without qualification and sharing the gospel.

TAKE CARE

On March 24th in Lorgues we will be hosting TAKE CARE a seminar that will, with the help of a qualified professional,  look at all the relevant factors involved in thinking through care and other issues.  There will be more information about this nearer the time, but please put the date in your diary, it might just be worthwhile.

ARK IN THE PARK FETE

The ARK IN THE PARK FETE on 28th September was a ROARING success with over 50 people helping to raise funds for the wheelchair-enabled vehicle to help those who need to get out and get around. Over 4.500 euros was raised at the event at the Maison Des Peres in Lorgues. 

Particular thanks to Fr Ken Letts, Archdeacon of France who came from Nice and Simon Taylor, British Consul who came from Marseilles to support us and to Anita Sicart who encouraged so many fabulous donations for the auction.

After an inspiring service in the chapel, all those who had come along to support this day headed out into the blazing sun to enjoy both the gardens of the Maison des Pères and lunch at the temporary “restaurant”

The day could not have happened without the considerable input of all who took part in it and special thanks to Simon Taylor from the consulate and Fr Ken Letts from Nice for fitting us into their diaries. Also thanks to Anita from the Var Village Voice who encouraged so many people to donate gifts for the auction, and to all of you who did the buying !! raising about € 4500 towards a wheelchair accessible vehicle. And thanks to all the OASIS team who did the lunch which was enjoyed by everyone and washed down by Lindsay Phillips wine. All in all a tremendous success in so many ways and an encouragement for both the work of the ARK and its crew as it sails on with its work in the community.

A very big thank you to all those who helped in the preparation, on the day, and who gave us their support.